If you’re like most business owners, you don’t have the time or resources to manage your own IT department. Even the thought of hiring a full-time IT specialist on staff might seem like overkill. That’s where working with a serviced IT company can help – they provide businesses with access to a range of expert IT staff without the hassle and expense of hiring and managing those employees themselves.
But not all serviced IT companies are created equal. We’ve seen a range of companies come and go since we opened in 2004, and many of our clients come to us with IT horror stories. From businesses crippled by ransomware attacks to “helpdesks” that are never manned; it can be a challenge to find the right serviced IT company to partner with.
To help avoid a lot of wasted time, effort and money, here are 5 things you should look for when choosing a serviced IT company.
1 – Experience in your industry
Make sure the company has experience in your industry. They should understand the specific challenges and needs of your business. For example, if you’re in the retail sector, they should be aware of things like PCI compliance and the need for secure credit card processing. If you’re in healthcare, they should understand AHPRA regulations and the importance of keeping patient data secure.
The company should also have a good understanding of your business processes and workflows. They should be able to offer solutions that will improve efficiency and productivity, not just patch up problems.
A good serviced IT company will have a team of experienced professionals who are familiar with a wide range of industries and businesses. They should be able to provide you with tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of your business.
2 – Comprehensive service ranges
Look for a company that offers a comprehensive range of services. They should be able to meet all your IT needs, from simple maintenance tasks to more complex projects.
This is one of the biggest drawcards to working with a serviced IT company- you should be able to access a range of professionals with the experience to take care of any problem. From project management to cybersecurity and network solutions to specialist support; the company needs to have the flexibility to support you in all situations.
3 – Established reputation
A good serviced IT company will have a solid track record of happy customers and positive reviews. They should also be transparent about any negative feedback.
Companies established for a long period of time have also demonstrated their ability to consistently serve customers and build a portfolio of experience. Our advice is to avoid newly established IT Companies.
4 – Pricing transparency
Make sure the company is transparent about its pricing. You should know exactly what you’re paying for, and there should be no hidden costs.
A good serviced IT company will be upfront about their pricing, with no hidden costs or unexpected fees. They should offer a range of flexible payment options to suit your budget, from pay-as-you-go services to comprehensive monthly plans.
They should also be willing to tailor their services to your specific needs and budget. This will give your business the flexibility to scale its services up or down as your needs change.
5 – Friendly and helpful
Finally, choose a company that you feel comfortable working with. They should be friendly and helpful, and you should feel confident in their ability to meet your needs. After all, you’ll be working with them closely on a regular basis!
When it comes to your business’s IT needs, you can’t afford to take risks. Choosing the right serviced IT company is an important decision that will have a big impact on the success of your business. By following these tips, you can be sure to find a serviced IT company that will be a good fit for your business.
If you’re interested in working with a serviced IT company to support your business, then Mercury IT is a long-established, trusted provider for a wide range of industries. We would welcome an enquiry about how we can find the right solution for your business and budget.